Veterans, want more health plan options?
Did you know that you can combine Medicare with TRICARE and Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits to gain even more coverage? If you’re curious about your options, download our free checklist, watch a webinar, or speak with one of our advisors to discuss your Medicare questions.
VA Benefits
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, “You may be eligible for VA health care benefits if you served in the active military, naval, or air service and didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge.”
When applying for VA benefits, you will be assigned to a priority group. There are eight priority groups that were created to ensure veterans who need care quickly can be enrolled promptly. In addition to affecting your enrollment timing, your priority group could impact how much you pay toward the cost of your care. Your priority group assignment is based on a variety of factors.
If you have an illness or injury due to your active-duty service, you may be eligible for disability compensation on top of your VA benefits.
TRICARE
TRICARE is a health program for a select group of individuals, including uniformed service members and their families, National Guard/Reserve members and their families, and others.
Eligible individuals automatically receive TRICARE For Life coverage when they enroll in Medicare Parts A and B. You must remain enrolled in Parts A and B to maintain eligibility for TRICARE.
Medicare, TRICARE, and VA Benefits
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs encourages veterans to enroll in Medicare once they’re eligible. Medicare works alongside your TRICARE and VA benefits to give you more well-rounded coverage.
How do I combine VA and/or TRICARE coverage with Medicare Advantage?
Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage (MA), is a Medicare health plan offered from private insurance companies approved by Medicare. This plan type combines Medicare Part A, Part B, and if you choose, Part D (prescription drug coverage) into an all-inclusive coverage option.
It's important to note that those who have TRICARE For Life should not enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription coverage due to their existing coverage. However, those with VA benefits only could benefit from considering this type of plan. To learn more, speak with one of our advisors.
If you choose a Medicare Advantage plan, you will use your VA benefits when you go to VA facilities for care. But when you go to a doctor or hospital outside of the VA, you will use your Medicare Advantage plan.
For those with TRICARE, TRICARE For Life can reimburse you for copayments you paid for TRICARE services.
What can I get from Medicare Advantage that I can’t get from the VA or TRICARE?
More Flexibility. Expand your network of treatment options. Your VA or TRICARE coverage might limit you to certain doctors, hospitals, or health care facilities. You can access more options and shorter wait times for appointments when you enroll in Medicare Advantage.
More Choices. You can choose from dozens of Medicare Advantage plan options. Our advisors can help you narrow down your choices and pick the right plan.
Benefits. See if you qualify for additional benefits.
What is the right Medicare Advantage plan for me?
The right Medicare Advantage plan for you is the one that works for your unique needs—giving you the necessary benefits, working with your budget, and helping you stay healthy.
Get local help with Medicare questions.
Our advisors are available to discuss your options and find the right plan for you. When you call, you’ll always talk to a real person who gives you genuine, personalized advice. Best of all, there’s no cost and no obligation for our services.
Share this article: